San Juan, Puerto Rico San Juan (sahn HWAHN) San Juan is the capital and most populous city in Puerto Rico. Founded in 1521 by Juan Ponce de León, who named it City of Puerto Rico (Rich Port). The capital of Puerto Rico is the oldest city under U.S. jurisdiction, but some people argue than St. Augustine, Florida, founded in 1565 is the oldest city in the continental United States. The history of San Juan begins a long time before its official foundation, in 1493, during his second voyage, Christopher Columbus landed in Puerto Rico. He named the island "San Juan Bautista", in honor of John the Baptist. But was not until 1508, that the Spanish government appointed Juan Ponce de León as the first governor of the island. He founded the original settlement in Caparra, now known as Pueblo Viejo, behind the almost land-locked harbor just to the west of the present metropolitan area and the city quickly became Spain's most important military outpost in the Caribbean.

A year later, the original settlement was relocated to a nearby coastal islet (to the site of what is now called Old San Juan) and named Puerto Rico (Rich Port). Sometime during the 1520s, confusion over the names led to a switch, the island took the name of Puerto Rico and the town became San Juan. Today, San Juan is known as La Ciudad Amurallada (the walled city) and is one of the biggest and best natural harbors in the Caribbean and is the second oldest European-founded city in theAmericas (after Santo Domingo, which was officially founded on August 5, 1498.) San Juan is located in the Northern Coastal Plains region in the karst zone, north of Aguas Buenas and Caguas ; east of Bayamón ; and west of Carolina and Trujillo Alto . The metropolitan area known as San Juan has 3 distinct areas: Old San Juan, the Beach & Resort area, and other outlying communities, the most important: Río Piedras, Hato Rey, Puerta de Tierra, and Santurce.

Río Piedras was founded in 1714 but became incorporated into San Juan in 1951. During the early 16th century, San Juan was the point of departure of Spanish expeditions to charter or settle unknown parts of the New World. Its fortifications repulsed the English navigator Sir Francis Drake in 1595, as well as later attacks. In the 20th century the city expanded beyond its walled confines, known as Old San Juan, to incorporate suburban Miramar, Santurce, Condado, Hato Rey and Río Piedras. San Juan is the largest processing center of the island, the metropolitan area has facilities for petroleum and sugar refining, brewing and distilling and produces cement, pharmaceuticals, metal products clothing, and tobacco. The port is one of the busiest in the Caribbean. San Juan is the country's financial capital, and many U.S. banks and corporations maintain offices or distributing centers there. San Juan is center of Caribbean shipping and is the 2nd largest sea port in the area (after New York City). Points of Interest Old San Juan This is a 500-year-old neighborhood originally conceived as a military stronghold.

Its 7-square-block area has evolved into a charming residential and commercial district. The streets here are paved with cobbles of adoquine, a blue stone cast from furnace slag; they were brought over a ballast on Spanish ships and time and moisture have lent them their characteristic color. The city includes more than 400 carefully restored 16th- and 17th-century Spanish colonial buildings. Old San Juan is a main spot for local and internal tourism and attracts many tourists, who also enjoy the gambling casinos, fine beaches, and tropical climate. More tourists visit San Juan each year than any other spot in the Caribbean. A leisurely foot tour is advisable for those who really want to experience this bit of the Old World, especially given the narrow, steep streets and frequently heavy traffic. To really do justice to these wonderful old sites, you'll need two mornings or a full day. Old San Juan provides a free trolley service to get you around the city. The trolley runs every day Monday through Friday from 7am until 6pm, and Saturday and Sunday from 9am until 7pm every 15 minutes.

Most of the trolleys are accessible for wheelchairs and mobility devices and identified with the blue International Symbol of Accessibility. You can also explore Old San Juan at your own pace on a bike, rent your own bicycle for $27 a day, helmet included. Rent the Bicycle, 1-787-602-9696. Old San Juan has several plazas: Plaza de San José is a favorite meeting place for young and old alike. At its center stands the bronze statue of Ponce de León, made from a British cannons captured in during Sir Ralph Abercromby's attack 1797. The plaza is skirted by a number of historic buildings. Abutting Plaza San José is the Plaza del Quinto Centenario (Quincentennial Square), opened in October 12, 1992. This plaza is the cornerstone of Puerto Rico's commemoration of the 500th anniversary of Columbus' discovery of the New World, has a sculpture which rises 12 meters (40 feet).

The monumental totemic sculpture in black granite and ceramics symbolizes the earthen and clay roots of American history and is the work of Jaime Suarez, one of Puerto Rico's foremost artists. Plaza de Armas (Arms Square) is Old San Juan's main square, on San José Street. Features four statues representing the four seasons; all are over 100 years old. It was carefully planned as the main city square and has served as a social meeting place for generations. Plaza de Colón (Columbus Square) was originally called St. James Square was renamed in 1893 to honor Christopher Columbus on the 400th anniversary of his discovery of Puerto Rico; bronze tablets at the pedestal of the Columbus statue record important episodes in the explorer's life. Plazuela de la Rogativa (Plaza of Religious Procession) was built in 1971, features a modern sculpture depicting a procession of religious women commemorates an event that took place on the site in 1797. During the spring of that year, a fleet of British ships led by under Sir Ralph Ambercrombie sailed into San Juan Bay, meaning to launch an assault on the city and take control of the colony.

When the attack was foiled, they undertook a naval blockade of San Juan, hoping to starve the residents into submission. As the towns people began to despair of any help from soldiers garrisoned in the inland towns, the governor ordered a rogativa, or divine entreaty, to ask the saints for assistance. The women of the town formed a procession through the streets, carrying torches and ringing bells. The British, hearing the commotion and seeing the moving lights, decided that reinforcements had arrived and quickly sailed off. The Plaza de Hostos is located near La Casita, features artisan displays, snack stands, and traditional piragüeros, who sell shaved ice topped with tropical fruit syrup. La Perla La Perla is a historical ramshackle barrio astride the northern historic city wall of Old San Juan, Puerto Rico, stretching about 650 yards (600 m) along the rocky Atlantic coast immediately east of the Santa Maria Magdalena de Pazzis Cemetery and down the slope from (north of) Calle Norzagaray. It is not probably a sight you expect to see in a major tourist zone.

Established in the late 19th century, the zone was designated for cemeteries, slaughterhouses, and homes of former slaves, servants and the homeless. The law required to be established away from the main city zone; in Old San Juan's case, outside the city walls. Over time, the city's poorer residents established their homes there. Today, La Perla has a population of 338, 198 housing units (29 unoccupied). Residents have defended their right to keep their homes despite goverment efforts to get them to move and transform the area to increase tourism revenue. If you have only one day to explore Old San Juan, these are my recommendations. Parks The Parque de las Palomas (Pigeon Park) is located near the Paseo de la Princesa, next to Capilla del Cristo at the end of Cristo Street. This park overlooks the restored La Princesa Jail, now a government office with an attractive art gallery. It is the perfect spot from which to enjoy a magnificent view of the harbor, city and mountains. It is also a great choice for families with small children; kids will enjoy interacting with the local pigeons.

The Luis Muñoz Rivera Park is an spacious ocean side park with large trees, landscape gardens and wide walks, located on Jesús T. Piñero Avenue. Open Tues-Sun 9:00am - 5:00pm. Other parks include: Martí Coll Linera Park, and Central Park (with facilities for jogging, baseball, calisthenics and tennis). Forts San Felipe del Morro was named in honor of King Phillip II, commonly known as El Morro , is a 16th-century citadel. The word itself sounds powerful and this six-level fortress certainly is. The construction of the Castillo San Felipe del Morro began in 1540 when King Charles V of Spain authorized its construction, including the surrounding walls and completed in 1589. Most of the walls in the fort today were added later, in a period of tremendous construction from the 1760's-1780's. Rising 140 feet above the sea, its 18-foot-thick wall proved a formidable defense. It fell only once, in 1598, to a land assault by the Earl of Cumberland's forces.

The fort is a maze of tunnels, dungeons, barracks, outposts and ramps. El Morro is studded with small, circular sentry boxes called garitas that have become a national symbol. The views of San Juan Bay from El Morro are spectacular. The area was designated a National Historic Site in February, 1949 with 74 total acres. It has the distinction of being the largest fortification in the Caribbean. In 1992, in honor of the 500th anniversary of the discovery of Puerto Rico by Christopher Columbus, the fortress was restored to its historical architectural grace and beauty. El Morro Fortress is a National Historic Site administered by the National Park Service. The fort is open to the public everyday from 9am to 6pm except on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year's Day. Admissions US$5 adults, children under 15 free, 1-787-729-6960. Castillo de San Cristóbal (San Cristóbal Fort) is El Morro's partner in the city's defense. Built in 1634 (completed in 1771), was considered the Gibraltar of the West Indies.

San Cristóbal was supported by a massive system of outworks which provided defense in depth and is is one of the largest defenses ever built in the Americas. It rose 150 feet, covering 27 acres of land. As if its size and height weren't sufficient to intimidate enemies, its intricate modular design was sure to foil them. A strategic masterpiece, it features five independent units, each connected by moat and tunnel; each fully self-sufficient should the others fall. It's a World Heritage and National Historic Site , administered by the U.S. National Park Service. Open daily from 9am to 6pm; 1-787-729-6960. The Fuerte San Gerónimo (San Gerónimo Fort) was built on the opposite end of San Juan to strengthen the city's defenses. The fort is located behind the Caribe Hilton Hotel, with small military museum in Puerta de Tierra. The Santa Elena Battery building with a long chimney-topped bunker was the formal army storage area.

Buildings and Other Areas of Interest La Fortaleza (also known as the Palacio de Santa Catalina began construction in 1533 and finalized the 25 of May of 1540, as a fortress. It was authorized to be built by Charles V as a defense against Carib Indian attacks. The building was the first of a series of military facilities constructed in the Bay of San Juan, but soon later proved inadequate to guard the entrance to the harbor, and became the official Governor's Residence. The oldest governor's mansion still used as such in Western Hemisphere and part of the old city's World Heritage Site. It has been occupied twice by invaders; by the Earl of Cumberland in 1598 and by the Dutch General Bowdoin Hendrick in 1625 when the building was damaged by fire. A major reconstruction was undertaken in 1640. In 1846, the building was remodeled and given a palatial aspect, uniting harmoniously 16th century military architecture with the refinements of the 19th century. It has been the home of 170 governors of Puerto Rico and is the official residence of the current governor.

Although the original structure (Palatial Building surrounded by gardens) was very primitive, La Fortaleza has undergone numerous changes over its 300 years of history. Free tours are available daily. Open Mon-Fri 9:00am-4:00pm; guided tours in English on the hour, in Spanish every 30 minutes, 1-787-721-7000 ext. 2358. Tours last about 40 minutes. Access to the official areas is not permitted. The Alcaldia (San Juan's City Hall), started construction in 1602, completed in 1789. In the 1840's the building was heavily remodeled providing its present day facade intended by its builders to be an exact replica of Madrid's. The building has a tourism information center and a small gallery for periodic exhibitions. Open Mon-Fri 8am - 4pm, except holidays. Free admissions. 1-787-724-7171 ext. 2391.

El Capitolio (Capitol Building of Puerto Rico) hold the offices of senators on one wing and those of representatives on the other, with galleries, friezes, mosaics and an impressive rotunda in which Puerto Rico's constitution is exhibited. Construction began in 1919 and the building was inaugurated on February 11, 1929. Guided tours by appointment only, Mon-Fri 9am-5pm, 1-787-721-5200 ext. 301. The Catedral de San Juan (San Juan Cathedral) is the second oldest cathedral in the Western Hemisphere; construction began in 1521. The original church on these grounds had wooden walls and a thatched roof. It was destroyed by hurricane in 1526 (October 4th), rebuilt in in 1540, looted in 1598, and damaged by another hurricane in 1615. The Cathedral as seen today is the result of work done in 1917, when major restorations were performed. This Cathedral is an authentic and rare New World example of medieval architecture.

The cathedral contains the marble tomb of the island's first governor Juan Ponce de León and the relic of San Pio, a Roman martyr. San Juan Cathedral still holds religious services on a regular schedule. Visitors can explore the cathedral from 8:30am to 4pm daily. The Iglesia de San José (San José Church) began construction in 1523. Juan Ponce de León gave the land where the Church now stands. Originally called the Church and Monastery of Saint Thomas Aquinas, it was built by Dominican friars to serve as the monastery's church and chapel dedicated to Saint Thomas Aquinas. The section erected in 1532, the Main Chapel or Sanctuary, is an excellent example of 16th century Spanish Gothic architecture. Ponce de León, was buried here for 300 years until his body was moved to the San Juan Cathedral in 1913. This was the family church of Ponce de León's descendants. Puerto Rican painter José Campeche, who contributed a great deal to the beautiful churches of his island, is buried here.

Open Mon-Sat 8:30am - 4pm, Sun mass at 12:00pm; 1-787-725-7501. The Capilla del Cristo (Cristo Chapel) was built in the 18th century (1753). The stories surrounding the history of this small chapel conflict wildly except on one point: someone on horseback took a terrible spill off the cliffs at the end of Calle Cristo. Whether he lived, and the chapel was built to commemorate the miracle, or whether he died, and the chapel was to block off the street and prevent such an accident from happening again, is the part of the story that is in dispute. The beautiful Campeche paintings and altar inside can be seen through the church's glass doors. Open Tues. 10am - 4pm. The Casino of Puerto Rico was built just before World War I. The exterior - in the style of French mansions of the Louis XVI era, a copper copula, a large ballroom with elaborate plaster-work and a 12-foot chandelier distinguish this building.

The Teatro Tapia (Tapia Theater) was built in 1832 (financed by subscriptions and by taxes on bread and imported liquor) and remodeled in 1949 and 1987 is one of the oldest theaters in the Western Hemisphere, was named for Alejandro Tapia y Rivera, the famous Puerto Rican playwright. Still hosts a variety of entertainment in the fine arts, plays, ballets and concerts. 1-787-721-0169 or 1-787-721-0180. Centro de Bellas Artes (Fine Arts Center) opened its doors in 1981. The modern facilities offer concerts, plays, and opera. It is the largest fine arts center in the Caribbean. Located on Ponce de León Avenue, Santurce. Ticket windows are open daily from 10am to 6pm. and remain open until 8:00 p.m. on performance nights.

1-787-725-7353, 1-787-725-7354 or 1-787-725-7358. The Escuela de Artes Plásticas (School of Fine Arts) was built by the Spanish colonial government in the 1800s. Previously the facilities served as an asylum for mental patients. La Intendencia, formerly the Spanish colonial exchequer, a fine example of 19th century Puerto Rican architecture, now houses Puerto Rico's State Department. Open Mon-Fri 8am - 12pm, 1pm - 4:30pm, 1-787-722-2121. Museums The San Juan Museum of Art and History was built in 1855 as a market and restored in 1979 as a cultural center, showcases Puerto Rico art and music, including concerts and festivals. Open Tuesday-Sunday, 10am - 4pm, 1-787-724-1875.

The Pablo Casals Museum is the Spanish master's legacy to the people of Puerto Rico. The museum collection includes manuscripts, memorabilia, photographs and a library of videotapes of Festival Casals concerts. Casals moved to Puerto Rico with his wife in the 1950s. He became the conductor of the Puerto Rico Symphony Orchestra and the president of the Conservatory of Music in Puerto Rico. The museum is open Tuesdays through Saturdays, 9:30am to 5:30pm. Admissions US$1 adults, US$0.50 children, 1-787-723-9185. Casa de los Dos Zaguanes (House of the Two Foyers) is home of the Museo del Indio (Museum of the Indian) and features exhibits on the indigenous peoples of the Caribbean region, with exhibits, ceramics and archaeological digs. Located on San José Street, Old San Juan. Open Tues-Sat 9am - 4pm. Admission free, 1-787-724-5477 or 1-787-722-1709.

The Asilo de Beneficencia (Home for the Poor) was built 1840s for the indigent people. Today houses the Instituto de Cultura Puertorriqueña (Institute of Puerto Rican Culture) offering exhibits galleries every day, features an impressive collection of artifacts from pre-European Puerto Rico, including pottery, stone tools and relics, and a recreation of a Taíno village. Open Wed-Sun: 9am - 4:30pm. Admission: US $1. 9 Calle Santana Elena Norzagarais, 1-787-724-5949 or 1-787-724-5477. The Convento de los Dominicos (Dominican Convent) was built by Dominican friars in 1523, this building has served alternately as a convent, as a shelter against Carib Indian raids, and as the Caribbean headquarters of the U.S. Army. The convent contains a small chapel museum.

Open Wed-Sun, 9am - 12pm, 1pm - 4:30pm; cultural events are sometimes held in the patio, art exhibitions in the galleries, 1-787-721-6866. The Casa Blanca (White House) was built in 1521 and lived in by Ponce de León descendants for over 250 years. In 1779 it was taken over by the Spanish military, then used later by the United States as a residence for military commanders (1898-1966). Today the mansion serves as National Historic Monument, housing a museum of 16th, 17th and 18th century history. Each room is decorated in a style associated with a period of the house's history. Casa Blanca is the oldest continuously occupied residence in the Western Hemisphere. Located on San Sebastián Street, Old San Juan, it houses a ethnographic museum and Taino (native Indian) artifacts. Open to the public Tuesday through Sunday, 9am to noon, 1pm to 4:30pm. Guided tours Tuesday-Friday by appointment.

Admission US$2 adults, US$1 children, 1-787-724-4102. The Casa Rosada (Pink House) was built in 1812 for the Spanish army. Today houses a government tourism office where you can pick up brochures, maps and a complimentary welcome cocktail made with Puerto Rican rum. La Casita (Little House) is home of the Puerto Rico Tourism Co. Information Center. Open Mon-Wed from 8:30am to 8pm; Thu-Fri until 5:30pm; and Sat-Sun, 9am to 8pm. 1-787-722-1709. The Casa de Ramón Power y Girault is the headquarters for the Conservation Trust of Puerto Rico, it also serves as a conservation resource center, in which critical environmental issues can be explored through an interactive multimedia exhibition entitled OJO-ISLA. Located at 155 Tetuán Street. Open Tuesday through Saturday, from 10am to 4:00pm, 1-787-722-5834.

The Ruinas de Caparra (Caparra Ruins) are those of an ancient fort where Ponce de León founded the first settlement on the island in 1508. The Museum of the Conquest and Colonization of Puerto Rico at the ruins offers historical documents, exhibits and artifacts. Open daily 9am - 4pm, 1-787-781-4795. The Cuartel de Ballajá (Ballajá Barracks or Ballajá Quarters) housed Spanish soldiers and their families in the late 1800s, the building could accommodate up to 1,000 people. The construction began in 1854, the main building was completed in 1863 and the chapel was added in 1881. Originally conceived as a solution to the lodging needs of military personnel stationed in San Juan. The Cuartel de Ballajá is a three-story square building with large gates on two ends, ample balconies, designed with a series of arches and a protected central courtyard that served as a plaza and covers a reservoir.

The Cuartel de Ballajá was the last and largest building constructed by the Spaniards in the New World. Facilities included officer quarters, warehouses, kitchens, dining rooms, prison cells and stables. After the Spanish American War, the U.S. Army used Ballajá to house its Infantry division. In 1943, it was converted into a military medical facility, known as the Rodriguez Hospital and it was part of the Fort Brooke structure. Today it houses the Museum of the Americas (inaugurated October 12, 1992), located on its second floor. The museum features changing exhibitions, craft exhibits and an impressive collection of Caribbean and European American art and artifacts, most notably a diverse collection of carved santos (saints). Open Monday-Friday 10am - 4pm, Sat-Sun 11am - 5pm, guided tours available weekdays 10:30am, 11:30am, 12:30pm and 2pm. Admission free, 1-787-724-5052.

The Museo de Doña Fela (Felisa Rincón de Gautier Museum) is a colonial building that was once the home of Felisa Rincón de Gautier, the dynamic mayor of San Juan from 1946 to 1968. Memorabilia from the mayor's life, such as plaques, correspondence and furniture, are on display. Open Mon-Fri: 9am - 4pm; 1-787-723-1897. The Sacred Heart University with the Museum of Contemporary Puerto Rican Art (Tue-Sat 9:00-4:00 p.m., Sun 11am - 5pm, 1-787-268-0049. Others museums include: The Archaeologist Adolfo de Hostos Museum, and the Museum of the Seas. Other Sights San Juan Beach & Resort area. This area starts just outside of Old San Juan and includes the areas of Condado, Miramar, Ocean Park and Isla Verde. This is a area of fancy hotels, casinos, nightclubs, restaurants and chic boutiques.

Casa de los Contrafuertes (House of Buttresses) is a traditional Spanish-style home, which holds the Museum of Colonial Architecture and the Museum of the Puerto Rican Family. This is believed to be the oldest residence left in Old San Juan, dating back to the early 18th century. Open Wed-Sun, 9am - 4:30pm, 1-787-724-5949. Also within Casa de los Contrafuertes you will find the Museo de Nuestra Raíz Africana (African Heritage Museum), features African artifacts, including masks, maps, musical instruments, and paintings. Open Mon-Fri from 9:30am to 5pm, and Sat from 10am to 5pm. Admission free, 1-787-724-4294 or 1-787-724-4184.

Casa del Libro (House of the Book) is an 18th-century house that is now a book museum holding a rare collection of early manuscripts and books (nearly 5,000 works), some dating back to the 15th century. Among the museum's most precious possessions are two royal mandates signed by Ferdinand and Isabella in 1493 concerning provisioning Columbus' fleet for his second voyage. Open Tues-Sat, except holidays, 11am - 4:30pm, 1-787-723-0354. The Puerta de San Juan (San Juan Gate) was built in the late 1700s, is one of six heavy wooden doors in the wall which for centuries were closed at sundown to cut off access to the city and protect the city from invaders. The wall is up to 20 feet thick and up to 40 feet tall. La Princesa (the princess), formerly the local San Juan penitentiary was built in 1837. It is elegantly landscaped with trees, a fountain, and a bronze sculpture. The building houses the Puerto Rico Tourism Company headquarters and rotating art exhibits.

Open Mon-Fri from 9am to 4pm. 1787-721-2400. Paseo de la Princesa (promenade of the princess) is an elegantly landscaped walkway with trees, statues, benches, street lamps and kiosks. The promenade faces the bay. Centro Nacional de Artes Populares y Artesanias (Popular Arts and Crafts Center) is part of the Puerto Rico Institute of Culture, displays and offers for sale a verity of island crafts. University of Puerto Rico which include campus, University Museum and the Jardin Botánico (Botanical Garden) is located in the Río Piedras. The University Museum has archaeological and historical exhibitions, and also monthly art exhibitions. Open Monday-Friday, 9am - 11pm, weekends 9am - 3pm, 1-787-764-0000, ext 2452. The Botanical Garden is a living laboratory of the native flora of Puerto Rico, with over 200 species of tropical and sub-tropical plants.

There are many exotic plants, including Egyptian papyrus, red palm, rain tree, candle tree, cantaloupe tree, the shapely Puerto Rican palm, and much more. Open daily 9am - 4:30pm, 1-787-250-0000 ext 6580 or 1-787-763-4408. The YMCA was built in 1914 and today shares the building with the Olympic Committee. Its facilities include a patio and the Salón de los Presidentes, (a meeting room). Cementerio de San Juan (San Juan Cemetery) is located between El Morro and the rocky cliffs above the Atlantic is considered one of the most picturesque of burial grounds anywhere. The cemetery is particularly noteworthy for its elaborate tombstones and the circular neoclassical chapel dedicated to Mary Magdalen. The most notable piece is a circular, red-domed chapel, which dates back to the late 19th century. Piñones Reserve is a sub-tropical moist forest, includes mangroves, sea turtle nesting sites and beautiful beaches. No camping allowed.

Colonial Adventures offers organized historical and art walking tours of Old San Juan, 1-787-729-0114. Ferry services are offered from San Juan to Cataño, across the San Juan Bay. Departs daily from Pier 2 in Old San Juan every half-hour between 6am and 10pm. For information call 1-787-788-1155. Tids and Bits San Juan - Capital city of Puerto Rico San Juan San Juan San Juan is the capital city of Puerto Rico and has a population of roughly 400,000 people. It sits on the northeastern shoreline of the country overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. San Juan is a modern city with most of the amenities you would expect of a modern western city. The city has a light-rail system, modern airport, visitors center, convention center, and some great beaches. It also has luxury hotels and condominiums, resorts, a wide variety of restaurants, and great shopping. Old San Juan Old San Juan is the oldest part of the city of San Juan and contains amazing Spanish colonial architecture and cobblestone streets.

It juts out from the mainland, separating the Atlantic Ocean from San Juan Bay and is only about seven square blocks in total size. It is surrounded by a wall built to protect the city from invading armies. Old San Juan contains some of San Juan's best museums, art galleries, shopping, fine dining, and bars. In addition, it has some of the best Puerto Rico Tourist Attractions , including the historic forts of San Cristobal Fort and El Morro Fort , the San Juan Bautista Cathedral , San Jose Church , and La Fortaleza . Old San Juan also has the cruise ships piers located along the San Juan Bay, which makes the area a very active tourist region with lots of shops, restaurants, and overall activity. Old San Juan is definately the place to go if you are looking for tourist activites, however note that on Monday most museums are closed.

Puerto Rico Facts on Largest Cities, Populations, Symbols - Worldatlas.com Largest Cities: (by population) San Juan, Bayamon, Carolina, Ponce Name: Puerto Rico, which is spanish for 'rich port,' was named by early Spanish settlers National Day: US Independence Day, July 4; Puerto Rico Constitution Day, July 25 Religion: Roman Catholic 85%, Protestant and other 15% San Juan: Puerto Rico's Capital City Puerto Rico Travel San Juan: Puerto Rico's Capital City San Juan is the largest city in the Caribbean and the center of culture, art, and history in Puerto Rico. With romantic and historic Old San Juan, dazzling beaches, resort casinos, and ancient monuments, the city offers something for everyone. It's no wonder that this is where people come to explore, to experience, and to play. Sign Up for Our Free Newsletters Thanks, You're in! Puerto Rico: population, area, capital, cities ... Puerto Rico Description of Puerto Rico Rico San is an island arranged in the plate limit zone between the Caribbean and the North American Plates.

This is a geographically entrancing, tectonically dynamic locale, where the Caribbean Plate has over-ridden the North American Plate and is presently sliding past it with strike-slip movement. The subtle elements of this tectonic collaboration are inadequately seen, generally because a great part of the area lies submerged, making it hard to concentrate on. History, Map, and Language Vacation Puerto Rico involves a core position in the historical backdrop of the American landmass. Colonized by Spanish pilgrim Juan Ponce de León in 1508, the island contains the most established European-established settlement under US purview. Much sooner than Sir Walter Raleigh and the Pilgrim Fathers had tried things out of the rough Atlantic, the first stone defenses of El Morro stronghold in Old San Juan had been etched deftly into the right spot. About 500 years after the fact, they're still there. Culture and Holidays Puerto Rico society is to some degree complex - others will call it beautiful. Society is a progression of visual indications and associations with the environment that make an area and/or a gathering of individuals not quite the same as whatever is left of the world.

Puerto Rico undoubtedly has a few one of a kind qualities that recognize their way of life from whatever other. Wedding Puerto is a very big affair and widely celebrated. Climate and Weather A Little distinction exists in the middle of winter and summer temperatures. On the coast, expect daytime highs in the low 80 degrees Fahrenheit and overnight lows almost 70 amid the winter months, and highs in the upper 80s with lows in the mid-70s in the mid-year. Temperatures diminish with elevation, running 5 to 15 degrees lower in the mountains, by and large. Notwithstanding its tropical area, the record high in Puerto Rico is just 98 degrees, lower than the record highs in the greater part of the 50 states, including Alaska. Rico Cruise is also very widely famous. Travelling and Tourism Puerto Rico is the most open island in the Caribbean. It has air administration from most major American center points and all the major carriers serve San Juan. There is exceptionally constrained worldwide support of different air terminals in Puerto Rico. Rico cheap flights are also flown from various different parts of the world. Since it's a piece of the United States, there are no bothers for U.S.

explorers identified with the fringe passage, coin trade, et cetera. Vacation and Destination Puerto Rico is honored with towering mountains, rainforests, white sandy shorelines along Caribbean shores, and dynamic society fashioned from a blend of Caribbean, Hispanic, African, and U.S. impacts. Society vultures will discover an abundance of memorable structures and landmarks, large portions of them going back approximately 500 years to the Spanish conquistadors. There are three world-class historical centers and a flourishing exhibition scene in San Juan. The city is more private yet pretty much as energizing as Miami or Las Vegas, and the complex style feeling of the city and its occupants will really inspire guests. San Juan's nightlife, feasting scene, gambling clubs and live execution schedule are pretty much as huge. Include a portion of the best golf and tennis in the West Indies, rich shoreline resorts, quiet and odd hotels and guesthouses, and you've got an impressive fascination. Some facts about Puerto Rico Population of country San Juan, capital city of Puerto Rico All... San Juan, capital city of Puerto Rico San Juan sizzles.

The Puerto Rican capital has a pulsating energy with exotic sight and surreal sounds resonating throughout the city, the oldest under the jurisdiction of the United States. Salsa stanzas echo throughout the streets while the Atlantic roars and colonial artifacts delight. The capricious capital is made of many distinct neighborhoods, including the gambler's paradise of Condado, the ritzy and tranquil Ocean Park, gritty but gallery-filled Santurce, swanky Isla Verde and the incomparably charming Old City, marked by candy-colored relics of the Spanish colonial era. Old San Juan truly has something for everyone: stunning architecture, memorable views, historical sites, plazas perfect for people-watching, impressive museums, world-class restaurants and plenty of bars and nightclubs for salsa dancing the night away. The best way to explore the seven-square block neighborhood is on foot, but the free trolley service takes visitors to the most popular sites. Castillo San Felipe del Morro, San Juan The highlight of Old San Juan is El Morro, a six-level fort that juts aggressively over the Atlantic. It is the New World's oldest Spanish fort, and the 15-foot thick stone walls date back to 1539.

Once a rest stop for soldiers, explorers and pioneers, the fort is one of the city's biggest tourist draws today. Be sure to stop at the fascinating Inscription Rock, where bygone wayfarers left behind signatures, messages and petroglyphs in the sandstone. The Cathedral of San Juan Bautista stands just a short walk from El Morro. Originally a wooden structure built in the 1520s, the church was destroyed by a hurricane and rebuilt in 1540. The rebuilding included many improvements, such as dramatic Gothic vaulted ceilings and a graceful circular staircase. The marble tomb on the north side holds the remains of Ponce de Leon, and the dome's trompe l'oeil work is positively breathtaking. Water sports are another big draw in San Juan, where white sand beaches meet excellent waves over the warm crystalline water. Take an aqua adventure off the coast to swim, scuba and snorkel with some of the world's most remarkable marine life, including teeming reefs alive with butterflyfish, turtles, starfish, puffers, angelfish and more.

Spend the rest of your time in San Juan hanging out with locals at the Plaza San Jose, learning about mid-16th century life at the Casa Blanca museum, flying a kite in the sea breeze, discovering Puerto Rico's African heritage at the Museum of African Roots, shopping for designer fashions on Cristo Street, feeding the birds at Pigeon Park and sampling rum at the Casa Don Q. The weekend effectively starts on Thursday, and there seems to be some sort of celebration throughout the city each weekend. To fit in with the crowds, dress up a bit, especially on Friday and Saturday nights. Women head out to the nightclubs in their best dresses and highest heels, and even the men dress with flair. Many locals spend the nights dancing to live music at San Juan's many upscale hotels, many of which also have casinos. In Old San Juan, the hottest clubs are on the Calle Fortaleza, where salsa music blares from pool-hall jukeboxes and mellow jazz bands serenade crowds at top-flight lounges. You'll see lots of young and beautiful people hanging out in Plaza San Jose, and more bohemians and professionals in Santurce, the downtown area.

Both crowds tend to stay out late on the pedestrian streets, and you will want to stay out with them to enjoy every minute of your San Juan experience. San Juan Geographical Location San Juan is located on the northern coast of Puerto Rico facing the Atlantic Ocean. It lies just east of the country’s center and is its most populated city with approximately 400,000 inhabitants. San Juan Language Spanish and English are both official languages of Puerto Rico although English is taught as a secondary language. San Juan Predominant Religion Puerto Rico Facts, Facts about Puerto Rico Puerto Rico Facts Where is Puerto Rico ? The Commonwealth of Puerto Rico is an archipelago, located in the northeastern Caribbean. It is an unincorporated territory of the United States of American and is situated east of the Dominican Republic and west of United States Virgin Islands and the British Virgin Islands. What is the capital of Puerto Rico ? San Juan is the capital of Puerto Rico. It is the most populous city and an important seaport of the Commonwealth. It is also the country's manufacturing, financial, cultural, and tourism center. Founded in 1509, it is the second oldest European-established city in the Americas. How big is Puerto Rico ?

The total area of Puerto Rico is 3,515 square miles. It has an estimated population of 3,725,789. What is the currency of Puerto Rico ? The official currency of Puerto Rico is American dollar. It is subdivided into 100 cents or pennies. Its ISO 4217 code is USD. It is also one of the world's reserve currencies. Which is the largest city of Puerto Rico ? San Juan, the capital of Puerto Rico, is the largest city of the country. It covers a total area of 76.93 square miles and has an estimated population of 395,326. It is situated along the northeastern coast of Puerto Rico. What is the official language of Puerto Rico ? English and Spanish are the official languages of Puerto Rico. Spanish is the primary language, while English is taught as a second language. What is the religion of Puerto Rico ? The dominant religion in Puerto Rico is Christianity. The first religion of Puerto Rican origin, Mita Congregation, was founded by Juanita Garcia Peraza in 1940. Jews, Muslims, and Tibetan Buddhism constitute the minority in the country.

What is the literacy rate of Puerto Rico ? The literacy rate of Puerto Rico in 2002 was 94.1%. Adult male literacy rate was 93.9%, while it was 94.4% for females. Who is the political leader of Puerto Rico ? Subjected to U.S. jurisdiction and sovereignty, Puerto Rico has a republican form of government. Its head of state is the President of the United States of America. The government is divided into three branches: executive, legislative, and judicial. Executive branch is led by the Governor, while the legislative branch comprises the Legislative Assembly and House of Representative. Judicial powers are vested in the Supreme Court. Barack Obama is the current and the 44th President of United States of America. He was sworn in as the president on January 20,2009. Luis Fortuno is the current Governor of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. He was sworn in on January 2, 2009. When is the National Day of Puerto Rico celebrated ? The National Puerto Rican Day Parade is celebrated on every second Sunday in June. It is celebrated in honor of the citizens of the country and takes place annually along Fifth Avenue, New York City.

July 25, is also celebrated as the Constitution Day. On this day in 1952, Commonwealth of Puerto Rico was established. This day is also the anniversary of US troops landing in the Puerto Rican Campaign of the Spanish-American War on July 25, 1898. What is the economy of Puerto Rico like ? In 2008, the GDP of the country was $88 billion, while its per capita income in 2010 was $16,300. The economy of the country is largely centered around services and industry, with services sector accounting for 54% of the GDP. It is followed by industry(45%) and agriculture (1%). Unemployment rate stands at 16.1%. Major industries in the country are pharmaceuticals, electronics, apparel, food products, and tourism. US, UK, Netherlands, Dominican Republic, Japan, and Ireland are the major trading partners. Last Updated Date: May 25, 2016

Question: What is the capital city of Puerto Rico?
Answer: San Juan